Hide and Seek, 2021

Artist Statement:

Hide and Seek is a 3 minute, 33 second video work in which the film takes the point of view of a girl running. Using the camera to resemble the eye level of the runner, the camera captures everything that she sees including every abrupt movement and turn. Indicating that the character is in jeopardy, the video begins at a slower pace and gradually builds up as the character begins to run for her safety. Additionally the raw audio is used to tune into the characteristics of heavy breathing, panting, and scared shrieks. Cueing in the audience to their visual and auditory senses, the soundtrack highlights the entirety of the girl’s experience. Details such as the leaves she tramples over, the sound of her feet hitting the pavement, passing cars and wind all work together to create an experience tuned into physicality. What’s more, as the girl runs, the viewer is left to wonder, what is she running from? They are placed in a state of suspense, unsure of the looming danger. Post editing production enhances the film’s quality of panic by adding blurring and cuts to resemble the girl’s overwhelmed state. The work aims to evoke a feeling of anticipation without ever coming to a conclusive end, forcing viewers to sit with the tension that remains.